Master of Biotechnology (Advanced)

Place yourself at the forefront of innovation, engineering organisms to address issues of food security, disease and climate change with the ANU Master of Biotechnology.

Study alongside our leading researchers who work on issues of global importance in areas of biochemistry and molecular biology in the biomedical, animal and plant sciences.

You will also consider the social and ethical impacts of biotechnological research.

Our Canberra location means you will learn about the work done by Australia’s largest government employers in biotechnology.

This Advanced program incorporates a research project and thesis.

Find out more about biotechnology, the degree structure, the university experience, career opportunities and student stories on our website.

Get the inside story on what it’s like to be an ANU student by visiting our student blog.

Admission Requirements

Applicants must present a Bachelor degree or international equivalent

The GPA requirement for this program must be met by both the program as a whole, as well as by the 8 courses in a cognate discipline. Where more than 8 cognate courses have been completed by the applicant, ANU will take the best 8 courses when assessing the cognate GPA.

The GPA for a Bachelor program will be calculated from (i) a completed Bachelor degree using all grades and/or (ii) a completed Bachelor degree using all grades other than those from the last semester (or equivalent study period) of the Bachelor degree. The higher of the two calculations will be used as the basis for admission.

Cognate Disciplines: Biochemistry, molecular biology and gene technology

Ranking and English language proficiency: At a minimum, all applicants must meet program-specific academic/non-academic requirements, and English language requirements. Admission to most ANU programs is on a competitive basis. Therefore, meeting all admission requirements does not automatically guarantee entry. In line with the University's admissions policy and strategic plan, an assessment for admission may include competitively ranking applicants on the basis of specific academic achievement, English language proficiency and diversity factors. Applicants will first be ranked on a GPA ('GPA1') that is calculated using all but the last semester (or equivalent) of the Bachelor degree used for admission purposes. If required, ranking may further be confirmed on the basis of:

Prior to enrolment in this ANU program, all students who gain entry will have their Bachelor degree reassessed, to confirm minimum requirements were met.

Further information: English language admission requirements and post-admission support

Employment Opportunities

The Master of Biotechnology provides a pathway for science graduates with background knowledge in biochemistry molecular biology and chemistry to acquire new knowledge, or extend and update your theoretical and practical understanding of modern biotechnology. 

You’ll be prepared to carry out research in basic, medical or agricultural sciences in university, industry or government research institutions. Opportunities exist in scientific, pharmaceutical and pathology companies, or in government and public service positions.

Completing a Master of Biotechnology (Advanced), with a research component, can also lead to a PhD.